One thing I have taken from training outside of the Aikido dynamic is the observation that we tend to train in best case scenarios, clean and clear signaled attacks answered within the traditional paradigm of "single technique victory". This has some merit in developing a "winning" mind that sees no contention and therefore no conflict. However it also breeds arrogance and inflated ideas of actual proficiency.

I think that's supposed to be a starting point, from which techniques are learned. After that, attacks should become progressively more realistic. Unfortunately, from a lot of what I've seen, that progression is rare, which does tend to breed arrogance and inflated ideas of proficiency.

On the other hand, anytime one is having trouble with a technique, I think it's good to go back and make everything clearer and simpler, and start the progression again.

Quote:

Alec Corper wrote:

I am a bit tired of the simplistic declarations people make on the basis of theory.

Doesn't take much, does it?

Regards.

David

"That which has no substance can enter where there is no room."
Lao Tzu